CHRONOMÈTRE SOUVERAIN BLACK LABEL
AUTOMATIQUE BLACK LABEL
Automatique Lune Black Label
Lune Black Label
Divine Black Label
QUANTIÈME PERPÉTUEL BLACK LABEL
Chronomètre Optimum Black Label
CHRONOMÈTRE À RÉSONANCE BLACK LABEL
Répétition Souveraine Black Label
Tourbillon Souverain Black label
BLACK LABEL COLLECTION

Chronomètre Optimum Black Label Calibre 1510 FP Journe FP Journe

Platinum case
Diameter: 40 or 42 mm
Overall height: 9.5 mm
Dial: blackened Gold and whitened guilloché Silver
Hands: blued Steel and rhodium plated Steel
Calibre 1510

Technical Specifications

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44


At the heart of the movement
At the heart of the movement
Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

Platinum case
Diameter: 40 or 42 mm
Overall height: 9.5 mm
Dial: blackened Gold and whitened guilloché Silver
Hands: blued Steel and rhodium plated Steel
Finishing
Platinum case
Diameter: 40 or 42 mm
Overall height: 9.5 mm
Dial: blackened Gold and whitened guilloché Silver
Hands: blued Steel and rhodium plated Steel
Calibre 1510

Technical Specifications

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44


At the heart of the movement
At the heart of the movement
Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

Chronomètre Optimum Black Label Calibre 1510 FP Journe FP Journe

Other views
F.P.Journe
F.P.Journe
F.P.Journe

About

AN EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION AVAILABLE ONLY FOR F.P.JOURNE WATCH OWNERS.

WITH A LIMITED PRODUCTION OF ABOUT 900 TIMEPIECES PER YEAR, F.P.JOURNE WANTED TO OFFER AN EVEN MORE EXCLUSIVE TIMEKEEPER THAT WOULD BE AVAILABLE ONLY FOR OWNERS OF AN F.P.JOURNE WATCH. WITH A CASE MADE IN PLATINUM, THE MOST PRECIOUS METAL, F.P.JOURNE HAS CREATED A DISTINGUISHED BLACK DIAL THAT PERSONALIZES EVEN FURTHER THE ELEGANCE OF THE BRAND WATCHES. THE BLACK LABEL COLLECTION WAS BORN.

THE BLACK LABEL COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE ONLY IN THE F.P.JOURNE BOUTIQUES AND ESPACES.

Combining modern technology with the rich heritage of the knowledge of time-telling history left to us by the great Masters, the Chronomètre Optimum joins the ranks of the iconic timepieces created by F.P.Journe Haute Horlogerie in its constant quest for precision, innovation and excellence.

Like all the models of the Classique collection, the Chronomètre Optimum has a manually wound mechanical movement manufactured in 18 Krose Gold. It symbolises the very essence of precision in a wristwatch, testifying to the accomplishment of F.P.Journe’s chronometric research.

The Chronomètre Optimum contains a majority of exceptional components, here brought together for the first time in a watch: 2 barrels in parallel, the constant force remontoire, the revolutionary new high-performance bi-axial EBHP escapement, and natural dead-beat seconds. Due to these extraordinary technical achievements, this watch achieves the feat of telling time with near perfect accuracy.

The aesthetics of the hour, minutes and small seconds displays and the 70-hour power reserve harmonise perfectly with the wheel of the remontoire, visible on the dial. The sapphire case back reveals the 18K rose Gold movement, with its surprising natural dead-beat seconds framed by the seconds circle screwed to the movement’s bridges.
Testimony
EBPH - F.P.Journe High-Performance Bi-Axial Escapement

"I designed the Chronomètre Optimum in 2001. It was the first time that I integrated the dead beat second into my constant-force remontoire. This dead beat second can clearly be seen and is natural due to being linked to the one-second remontoire. In this watch the constant-force remontoire is visible while the second hand on the main dial ticks away at a speed of 3 hertz, i.e. 6 times per second (frequency of the escapement).

This watch, in 2004, inspired the Tourbillon Souverain with Dead Beat Second. As I was working on the Calibre Octa and the various models of these automatic watches at the same time, I was unable to put the Chronomètre Optimum into production. Then other models such as the Sonnerie Souveraine, the Centigraphe Souverain and the Répétition Souveraine took up all my time.

The basic premise was to make a watch with less internal friction, a constant force on the escapement to ensure isochronism and an escapement without lubrication to ensure stability.

1) Friction: to reduce friction the two barrels in parallel eliminate the lateral pressure to which the great wheel is subjected and exert a more stable force on the wheel train.

Isochronism: the balance's oscillation rate must always stay the same. Unfortunately the spiral is always imperfect, making it impossible to achieve this when amplitudes change due to the energy of the spring weakening. The constant-force remontoire (patent EP 1 528 443 A1) achieves constant amplitude for the first 45 hours of power reserve.

2) The escapement (EP11405210.3) patented under the name of EBHP is a direct impulse escapement, which means that the escapement wheels supply impulse directly to the axis of the balance. In the 18th century there were several direct impulse escapements: the spring detent or pivoted detent escapement, the Robin escapement, Breguet's natural escapement, etc. All these escapements work without oil but are not suitable for wristwatches.

Modern escapements are assumed to be self-starting and to have the stabilising features required to deal with arm movement. For this reason the EBHP has an original geometry enabling automatic starting and a configuration of ruby pallets blocking the escapement wheels at a specific angle, similar to the Swiss anchor escapement, enabling "recoil". This isolates the blocking anchor from the balance in order to stabilise it during movement on the wrist.

My watchmaking philosophy is to make watches that will still work in 200 years. Those made 200 years ago are still in working order today if they have been maintained regularly. It is for this reason that I only use solid materials that have proven their worth rather than modern materials that will probably be unable to be repaired in a few decades.

Variations in some of the watches from the Classique collection:

- The Chronomètre à Résonance achieves a constant rate when exposed to movement on the wrist. This watch is very accurate because its rate is not affected when the watch is worn.

- The Tourbillon Souverain: the classic tourbillon is not generally a very good watch, but combined with a constant force remontoire, its stability is guaranteed.

- The Chronomètre Souverain: has the same accuracy as the Chronomètre à Résonance but does not cancel out the effects of being worn."

François-Paul Journe

Technical Specifications

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44


At the heart of the movement
At the heart of the movement
Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

  • About

    AN EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION AVAILABLE ONLY FOR F.P.JOURNE WATCH OWNERS.

    WITH A LIMITED PRODUCTION OF ABOUT 900 TIMEPIECES PER YEAR, F.P.JOURNE WANTED TO OFFER AN EVEN MORE EXCLUSIVE TIMEKEEPER THAT WOULD BE AVAILABLE ONLY FOR OWNERS OF AN F.P.JOURNE WATCH. WITH A CASE MADE IN PLATINUM, THE MOST PRECIOUS METAL, F.P.JOURNE HAS CREATED A DISTINGUISHED BLACK DIAL THAT PERSONALIZES EVEN FURTHER THE ELEGANCE OF THE BRAND WATCHES. THE BLACK LABEL COLLECTION WAS BORN.

    THE BLACK LABEL COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE ONLY IN THE F.P.JOURNE BOUTIQUES AND ESPACES.

    Combining modern technology with the rich heritage of the knowledge of time-telling history left to us by the great Masters, the Chronomètre Optimum joins the ranks of the iconic timepieces created by F.P.Journe Haute Horlogerie in its constant quest for precision, innovation and excellence.

    Like all the models of the Classique collection, the Chronomètre Optimum has a manually wound mechanical movement manufactured in 18 Krose Gold. It symbolises the very essence of precision in a wristwatch, testifying to the accomplishment of F.P.Journe’s chronometric research.

    The Chronomètre Optimum contains a majority of exceptional components, here brought together for the first time in a watch: 2 barrels in parallel, the constant force remontoire, the revolutionary new high-performance bi-axial EBHP escapement, and natural dead-beat seconds. Due to these extraordinary technical achievements, this watch achieves the feat of telling time with near perfect accuracy.

    The aesthetics of the hour, minutes and small seconds displays and the 70-hour power reserve harmonise perfectly with the wheel of the remontoire, visible on the dial. The sapphire case back reveals the 18K rose Gold movement, with its surprising natural dead-beat seconds framed by the seconds circle screwed to the movement’s bridges.
  • Testimony

    EBPH - F.P.Journe High-Performance Bi-Axial Escapement

    "I designed the Chronomètre Optimum in 2001. It was the first time that I integrated the dead beat second into my constant-force remontoire. This dead beat second can clearly be seen and is natural due to being linked to the one-second remontoire. In this watch the constant-force remontoire is visible while the second hand on the main dial ticks away at a speed of 3 hertz, i.e. 6 times per second (frequency of the escapement).

    This watch, in 2004, inspired the Tourbillon Souverain with Dead Beat Second. As I was working on the Calibre Octa and the various models of these automatic watches at the same time, I was unable to put the Chronomètre Optimum into production. Then other models such as the Sonnerie Souveraine, the Centigraphe Souverain and the Répétition Souveraine took up all my time.

    The basic premise was to make a watch with less internal friction, a constant force on the escapement to ensure isochronism and an escapement without lubrication to ensure stability.

    1) Friction: to reduce friction the two barrels in parallel eliminate the lateral pressure to which the great wheel is subjected and exert a more stable force on the wheel train.

    Isochronism: the balance's oscillation rate must always stay the same. Unfortunately the spiral is always imperfect, making it impossible to achieve this when amplitudes change due to the energy of the spring weakening. The constant-force remontoire (patent EP 1 528 443 A1) achieves constant amplitude for the first 45 hours of power reserve.

    2) The escapement (EP11405210.3) patented under the name of EBHP is a direct impulse escapement, which means that the escapement wheels supply impulse directly to the axis of the balance. In the 18th century there were several direct impulse escapements: the spring detent or pivoted detent escapement, the Robin escapement, Breguet's natural escapement, etc. All these escapements work without oil but are not suitable for wristwatches.

    Modern escapements are assumed to be self-starting and to have the stabilising features required to deal with arm movement. For this reason the EBHP has an original geometry enabling automatic starting and a configuration of ruby pallets blocking the escapement wheels at a specific angle, similar to the Swiss anchor escapement, enabling "recoil". This isolates the blocking anchor from the balance in order to stabilise it during movement on the wrist.

    My watchmaking philosophy is to make watches that will still work in 200 years. Those made 200 years ago are still in working order today if they have been maintained regularly. It is for this reason that I only use solid materials that have proven their worth rather than modern materials that will probably be unable to be repaired in a few decades.

    Variations in some of the watches from the Classique collection:

    - The Chronomètre à Résonance achieves a constant rate when exposed to movement on the wrist. This watch is very accurate because its rate is not affected when the watch is worn.

    - The Tourbillon Souverain: the classic tourbillon is not generally a very good watch, but combined with a constant force remontoire, its stability is guaranteed.

    - The Chronomètre Souverain: has the same accuracy as the Chronomètre à Résonance but does not cancel out the effects of being worn."

    François-Paul Journe
  • Technical description

    Technical Specifications

    Mouvement :

      Calibre 1510
      Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
      18K rose Gold

    Dimensions :
    • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
    • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
    • Height : 5.80 mm
    • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
    • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
    Balance :

      Chronometric balance with inertia weight
      Hair spring with Phillips curve
      Mobile stud holder
      Free sprung
      Pinned GE stud

    Frequency :

      21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

    Inertia :

      10.10 mg/cm2

    Angle of lift :

      58°

    Amplitude :

      0h dial up: 260°
      24h dial up: 260°

    Characteristics :

      1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
      Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
      High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
      2 mainspring barrels in parallel
      2 position crown
      Time adjustment in position 2

    Indications :

      Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
      Small second at 9h00
      Power reserve at 6h00
      Large dead beat second on the back

    Autonomy :

      70 ± 2 hours

    Finishes :

      Circular graining on baseplate
      Geneva waves on bridges
      Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
      Pegs with polished rounded ends

    Number of parts :

      Movement without dial : 240
      Cased up with strap : 264
      Jewels: 44

    Mouvement :

      Calibre 1510
      Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
      18K rose Gold

    Dimensions :
    • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
    • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
    • Height : 5.80 mm
    • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
    • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
    Balance :

      Chronometric balance with inertia weight
      Hair spring with Phillips curve
      Mobile stud holder
      Free sprung
      Pinned GE stud

    Frequency :

      21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

    Inertia :

      10.10 mg/cm2

    Angle of lift :

      58°

    Amplitude :

      0h dial up: 260°
      24h dial up: 260°

    Characteristics :

      1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
      Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
      High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
      2 mainspring barrels in parallel
      2 position crown
      Time adjustment in position 2

    Indications :

      Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
      Small second at 9h00
      Power reserve at 6h00
      Large dead beat second on the back

    Autonomy :

      70 ± 2 hours

    Finishes :

      Circular graining on baseplate
      Geneva waves on bridges
      Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
      Pegs with polished rounded ends

    Number of parts :

      Movement without dial : 240
      Cased up with strap : 264
      Jewels: 44


    At the heart of the movement
    At the heart of the movement
    Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
    fpjourne

    Technical description


    (1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
    (2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
    (3) Natural dead beat second in the back
    (4) Constant force remontoire

    ---

    The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

    - The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

    - The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

    - The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

    - The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

    Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
    fpjourne

    Technical description


    (1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
    (2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
    (3) Natural dead beat second in the back
    (4) Constant force remontoire

    ---

    The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

    - The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

    - The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

    - The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

    - The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

Technical Specifications

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44

Mouvement :

    Calibre 1510
    Manual winding / 27 turns of crown
    18K rose Gold

Dimensions :
  • Overall diameter : 34.00 mm
  • Casing-up diameter : 33.60 mm
  • Height : 5.80 mm
  • Height of winding system : 2.395 mm
  • Diameter of stem thread : S1.20mm
Balance :

    Chronometric balance with inertia weight
    Hair spring with Phillips curve
    Mobile stud holder
    Free sprung
    Pinned GE stud

Frequency :

    21,600 Alt/h (3Hz)

Inertia :

    10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift :

    58°

Amplitude :

    0h dial up: 260°
    24h dial up: 260°

Characteristics :

    1 second remontoire at 11h, very light in Titanium and balanced
    Natural dead beat second on the back of the movement
    High performance Bi-axial escapement with arbor and wheels in Titanium, functioning without oil, (inspired by that of A.L. Breguet created in the XVIII Century)
    2 mainspring barrels in parallel
    2 position crown
    Time adjustment in position 2

Indications :

    Off centre hours and minutes at 3h00
    Small second at 9h00
    Power reserve at 6h00
    Large dead beat second on the back

Autonomy :

    70 ± 2 hours

Finishes :

    Circular graining on baseplate
    Geneva waves on bridges
    Polished screw heads with chamfered slots
    Pegs with polished rounded ends

Number of parts :

    Movement without dial : 240
    Cased up with strap : 264
    Jewels: 44


At the heart of the movement
At the heart of the movement
Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.

Brevet - EP 11405210.3 / EP 1 528 443 A1 / EP 1 760 544 A1
fpjourne

Technical description


(1) High Performance Bi-axial Escapement
(2) Double mainspring barrels in parallel
(3) Natural dead beat second in the back
(4) Constant force remontoire

---

The Chronomètre Optimum embodies the culmination of F.P. Journe chronometric research for a wristwatch.

- The double barrel with its two springs ensures the stability of the driving force of this emblematic movement made of 18K rose Gold, a specificity of the brand.

- The constant-force remontoire (patent EP1528443.A1) balances the driving force applied to the escapement to make it constant. By adding an extra gear representing an independent system wound in short spurts by the mainspring, the escapement ensures the balance's isochronism. This remontoire, made of titanium for the first time, maintains its balance in different positions, for greater efficiency.

- The EBHP High-Performance Bi-axial Escapement has also been patented (patent EP11405210.3). This two-wheel direct impulse escapement functions without oil and is the only direct impulse escapement to start up on its own. But not only does it function without lubricant, it also has far greater output than the majority of escapements: 50 hours without loss of amplitude. Many dual-wheel escapements have been created in the past, the most efficient being the "natural" escapement invented by A-L. Breguet (†1823).

- The balance with a spiral with Phillips curve guarantees better equilibrium.